Editing Holy Bible (section)

== Reformation and Vernacular Translations ==

=== Luther's German Bible (1522) ===
[[Martin Luther]]'s translation of the New Testament into German (1522) and his complete Bible (1534) marked a turning point in Bible publishing. Luther's translation was printed and distributed widely, making Scripture accessible to German speakers and advancing the [[Protestant Reformation]]. His work influenced subsequent German editions and established standards for Bible translation into vernacular languages.

=== Tyndale's English Bible (1526) ===
[[William Tyndale]] (c. 1494-1536) produced the first printed English New Testament (1526) from the original Greek, working in exile from England. Though Tyndale was executed for his work before completing the entire Bible, his translation formed the basis for subsequent English Bibles. Approximately 3,000 copies of his New Testament were printed and distributed despite official suppression.

=== Miles Coverdale's Bible (1535) ===
[[Miles Coverdale]] (1488-1569) produced the first complete printed English Bible in 1535. Though based partly on Tyndale's work, Coverdale's translation could be printed and distributed openly, making it a landmark in English Bible publishing.

=== The Great Bible (1537-1541) ===
The [[Great Bible]] (also called [[Cranmer's Bible]]), edited by [[Miles Coverdale]], was authorized for use in English churches. It was printed in large format and chained to church lecterns so congregations could read it publicly. This represented an important shift toward making the Bible accessible to ordinary people.

=== Geneva Bible (1560) ===
The [[Geneva Bible]], produced by Protestant exiles in Geneva, became extremely popular in Scotland, England, and among Puritans in America. It was smaller and more affordable than the Great Bible and included extensive study notes. Over 200 editions were printed between 1560 and 1644, making it one of the most widely published Bibles of its era.

=== King James Version (1611) ===
The [[King James Version]] (KJV), commissioned by [[King James I of England]], was published in 1611 and became the dominant English Bible for over 300 years. The KJV was printed in large quantities and distributed throughout English-speaking territories. Its literary style and poetic language made it influential in English culture and literature. Multiple printings and editions have made it the most distributed Bible version in English history.